The Cytoplasmic Domain of Human FcγRIa Alters the Functional Properties of the FcγRI·γ-Chain Receptor Complex

The γ/ζ-chain family of proteins mediate cell activation for multiple immunoglobulin receptors. However, the recognition that these receptors may have distinct biologic functions suggests that additional signaling elements may contribute to functional diversity. We hypothesized that the cytoplasmic domain (CY) of the ligand binding α-chain alters the biological properties of the receptor complex. Using macrophage FcγRIa as a model system, we created stable transfectants expressing a full-length or a CY deletion mutant of human FcγRIa. Both receptors functionally associate with the endogenous murine γ-chain. However, we have established that the CY of FcγRIa directly contributes to the functional properties of the receptor complex. Deletion of the FcγRIa CY leads to slower kinetics of receptor-specific phagocytosis and endocytosis as well as lower total phagocytosis despite identical levels of receptor expression. Deletion of the CY also converts the phenotype of calcium independent FcγRIa-specific phagocytosis to a calcium-dependent phenotype. Finally, deletion of the CY abrogates FcγRIa-specific secretion of interleukin-6 but does not affect production of interleukin-1β. These results demonstrate a functional role for the CY of FcγRIa and provide a general model for understanding how multiple receptors that utilize the γ-chain can generate diversity in function.